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Ionatana served in the country's parliament from Tuvalu's independence in 1978 up to his death. He held many portfolios during his political career, including government secretary, Minister of Education and Minister of Works and Communications.
Ionatana succeeded Bikenibeu Paeniu as Prime Minister and in his term oversaw Tuvalu's entry into the United Nations on September 5, 2000.
| Prime Ministers of Tuvalu | |
| Toaripi Lauti | Tomasi Puapua | Bikenibeu Paeniu | Kamuta Latasi | Bikenibeu Paeniu | Ionatana Ionatana | Lagitupu Tuilimu (act..) | Faimalaga Luka | Koloa Talake | Saufatu Sopoanga | Maatia Toafa |